The Benefits of Vacuum Sealing for Meal Prep and Storage
Table of contents
Vacuum Sealing Saves Money
Although *vacuum sealers require an upfront investment, they save money by reducing food waste and allowing you to buy in bulk. They’re especially useful for meal preppers or anyone who wants an organized kitchen.
We like the NESCO VS-12 sealer the best, and it has been recommended many times, including by America’s Test Kitchen and Epicurious.
Vacuum sealing makes meal preparation and storage easier, helping keep food fresh, save space, and reduce waste. With years of experience in meal prepping and food storage, I’ve tested various methods and tools, and vacuum sealing consistently stands out for its effectiveness and convenience. This guide is based on hands-on experience and trusted resources, so you can rely on these recommendations to make informed decisions.
Here are some trusted references that expand on the benefits of vacuum sealing:
Keeping Food Fresh Longer
The process removes air from packaging, which helps prevent freezer burn. Freezer burn happens when ice crystals on frozen food turn into vapor. While it’s still safe to eat, freezer-burned food can lose its texture and flavor. Vacuum-sealed food stays fresh for months longer compared to food in regular freezer bags or wrapped in paper. For example, vacuum-sealed turkey can last a year or more in the freezer without losing much quality.
Sous Vide Methods
You can use your sous vide immersion cooker for many things, including a great, safe way to defrost large pieces of meat. You can use the displacement method which means using the pressure of the water to remove as much air as possible, or a vacuum sealed bags. Hint: the bags are better because they don’t float up to the top of the container and your food cooks more evenly. We love sous vide!
Saving Space in the Freezer
Vacuum-sealed packages are flat and stackable, making it easier to organize your freezer. For example, you can freeze prepped burger patties—flavored with barbecue seasoning or stuffed with blue cheese—and stack them neatly.
Similarly, prepped vegetables like chopped bell peppers, celery, carrots, and onions can be sealed in resealable bags for easy use later.
Reducing Food Waste
Vacuum sealing extends the life of leftovers and prepped ingredients. Foods that are more than four days old in the fridge can be sealed and frozen, keeping them fresh and ready for future meals. This helps minimize waste and improve meal planning.
Flexible Storage Options
Vacuum sealers aren’t just for freezing. You can reseal chip bags to keep them fresh or seal bags of frozen vegetables like fries. Handheld vacuum sealers work well for smaller items like avocados, while larger sealers are great for bulk storage.
Disposable plastic vacuum-sealing bags are a good choice for raw meat because they’re hygienic and easy to toss. Reusable vacuum-sealing bags are a more eco-friendly option for other foods. There are also recyclable, non-plastic bags for those looking to reduce waste. Additionally, mason jars can be vacuum-sealed using a compatible attachment, which works well for storing dried goods like grains, coffee, and spices.
Perfect for Long-Term Storage and Camping
Vacuum sealing is ideal for storing food long-term and for camping. It keeps food safe from moisture, pests, and contamination. Bulk items like grains, dried fruits, and nuts can stay fresh for months or even years. On camping trips, vacuum-sealed meals are compact, lightweight, and easy to prepare, bringing the taste of home to the outdoors.
Vacuum Sealing Gifts
If you want to give food as a gift, vacuum sealing can be a great way to do it because it keeps the food fresh and doesn’t make a mess. A few years ago, I made popcorn and sprinkle gifts for my neighbors.
Final Thoughts
Vacuum sealing is an easy and effective way to keep food fresh, save space, and stay organized. Whether you’re a busy cook or just want better storage, a vacuum sealer is a great addition to your kitchen. Start with a handheld model or go for a full-size version for even more benefits. Either way, you’ll enjoy the advantages in no time.
